Hummingbird Feeders High Up

by Michael
(Asheville, NC)

I am moving to a 4th floor apartment which has a balcony. Will hummingbirds use a feeder that high off the ground?

Hi Michael

Yes they will. You may have to work a little to get their attention first though.

Here is a list of things you can do to attract Hummers to your balcony:

1. Make sure your feeder is hung on the balcony so that it is visible from lower points of view. Above the railing would be a good location. If it is too close to the building then it may not be seen. (Be sure to use a dripless feeder. Your neighbors below may not appreciate the sticky syrup on their balcony. And neither of you will like the little ants that will follow.)

2. Hang flowering plants close to your feeder. Tube style blossoms like a fuscia work well. The plants will also supply spiders and other bugs to help round out the Hummers diet.

3. Hanging artificial flowers will have the same effect at attracting the wild birds if you do not want to use real flowers.

4. Red is a good color to attract Hummingbirds along with a few other colors like orange and yellow. All bright colors will attract them but these three have been proven to be most effective.

5. Tying bright colored ribbon to your balcony will also provide the attraction factor too.

6. Providing the sound of water will also act as a magnet. Wild birds love water. If you set up a bird bath with a mister or a dripper the Hummingbirds may delight you with aerial bathing swoops! You will be able to purchase a mister or dripper at a wild bird supply store.

Once you have successfully attracted one Hummingbird, then your battle is over, others will soon follow. And if you are faithful to hang your feeders every year they will not disappoint you.